Sleeping Beauty

Letting Katie nuzzle into him, Hunter drapes his arm around her. He still felt badly for her and all she'd been through lately. It didn't seem fair. He wasn't in the habit of sticking his nose in or randomly offering help... but as he'd concluded before, Katie was different. 

It wasn't long before he realizes she'd slipped off to sleep and a small smile creases his lips. She looked like an exhausted, frightened little girl and somehow it tugged his heartstrings just a bit. His fingers find themselves gently running through her hair before he gives her shoulder a little pat. He knew she was far enough gone that he needn't worry about her waking. 

Rising slowly from the couch, he manages to gently lie Katie down with a pillow under her head. Taking off her shoes, he then grabs a blanket and lays it over her before turning off the television. He'd let her sleep. As long as she wasn't out doing something stupid to hurt herself, he was happy... 

...Sunshine peeked in around the closed curtains in the living room, giving it a soft glow. It was already nine o'clock and Hunter had been up for an hour. Having already showered and donned clean clothes, he'd been extra quiet, letting the sleeping bundle on the couch remain as such. But it was getting late and he knew she probably needed to get up and either go to work, or call in - he imagined it would be the latter. 

Easing down on the couch next to Katie, he sets the small glass of orange juice and a couple aspirin on the coffee table. "Hey, sleeping beauty..." He trails a finger down her arm, trying to gently wake her up. He kept his tone quiet, knowing she would probably wake to a nice headache. "How about something to drink and a nice hot shower, hmm?"

As Grace enters the room, Jared can't help it that his eyebrows rise. No, he wasn't surprised to see her since he'd forgotten it was her day off, but yes, he was surprised to see her in such a pretty dress, all done up like she was headed somewhere special. But she was just here to see him? 

Despite his dismal mood, a little laugh comes to he surface at her comment about his flirting. What really caught his attention though was the thought of getting some fresh air. "You kidding? This room gets smaller every day. I'd do anything to get out of it for just five minutes." Especially today... but he wouldn't say that. Grace seemed so happy and perky that he didn't want to lay his troubles on her again. He looks down, hoping she wouldn't notice the darkness in his eyes, and tries to quickly cover it up. 

"Not to mention, having someone as pretty as you push me around in a wheelchair sounds rather thrilling." 

Eric makes his way slowly to the dining hall, gingerly favoring his leg. It felt a little better than this morning - at least he could actually move it. But it was probably going to take a few days to get back to normal again. He'd gone ahead and given Ashlee a riding lesson today anyway since he could stay on the ground and he was only having her practice sitting correctly while keeping the horse at a walk. Not that Angel would approve, but he wasn't about to disappoint Ashlee. Other than that, he'd stuck to cleaning tack, helping with some paperwork... and maybe he'd cleaned a stall or two, but only so he wouldn't go stir crazy. The only thing missing all day had been Stacy - he'd been busy, she'd been busy, and he'd only seen her from a distance once or twice to wave, but that was it. A part of him wished for evening to come quickly so he could ask to walk on her rounds with her again... and a part of him hoped that last night hadn't just been a fleeting moment, now forgotten. He certainly didn't feel any differently today... did Stacy? 

Getting inside, he takes off his hat and scans the tables. Seeing Stacy and Ashlee in their normal spots, a smile spreads on his face. Making his way over to them, he gestures to the empty chair next to Stacy. "Good evening, ladies. Is this seat taken?" 

Mick looks around the room and sighs. He hadn't seen Dylan all day, and hoped he'd at least show up for supper. So much for that.

"Hey, Dad." Jade gives him a smile as she heads from the kitchen, having been helping Becky. Seeing his furrowed brow though, she stops. "Something wrong?"

"Nah..." He shrugs. "Just noticing Dylan skipping out on supper again."

"Oh, didn't he tell you?"

"Tell me what?"

"He went over to Sparky and Faith's to eat."

Mick lifts an eyebrow, a bit surprised. "Oh."

Jade wasn't sure if it was annoyance or disappointment she saw, but either way, she felt badly that he wasn't happy about it. She tries her best to give him a smile anyway though. "I gotta go pour some drinks. I'll see you later, okay?"

"Yeah, okay." Mick forces a returned smile before wandering to a nearby table to sit. Another weary sigh surfaces. What was it Sparky had that he didn't? Would he ever understand?

"Mmm... boy, this is good." Sparky takes another bite of roast beef, complimenting Faith on the tasty supper. 

Across the table, Dylan nods his agreement. "How come you don't let her cook for you every night?" 

Sparky chuckles. "It's called being sociable." He tosses a wink at Faith. "Not that we go to the dining hall every evening though." 

A faint wry grin settles on Dylan's lips. He knew some people had felt funny about Faith and Sparky getting married - their backgrounds were so very different, let alone the age span between them. But as far as Dylan was concerned, they seemed perfect for each other and... he kind of liked being in their home. It was warm... peaceful... safe. 

Good Pillow

"Nash....I don't min..mind the company. Kinda don wanna be alonesh anyways."

As Fast as Katie had gotten drunk she could feel it starting to ware off a little too. She wasn't as giggly as before but now it was more of a drunken mellow state and although she was a little tired sleep was just something at the moment...she didn't want to do.

   "Nofhin better than a b...b...movie for sure."

Looking over at Hunter and seeing him offer himself as a pillow Katie gives a small smile. Maybe an innocent cuddle would make her feel better. Just to feel comforted would be nice.

 Moving closer to Hunter Katie curls up into a little ball and leans her head on his chest and draps her arm over his stomach. Just laying there she focuses on the tv starting to feel her eyes droop a little bit she does her best to keep them pried over. Sleep was not what she wanted to face yet. 

   "You make a good pillow you know that? Shoft, squishy, warm...you make a good pillow."

Letting her words trail off Katie tries to pay attachen to the movie once more but within seconds she was a sleep. Her breath shallow, her arm still tucked tightly around Hunter, her face buried into his chest. The only moment she made was a twitch here or there that hinted maybe she was drean, but of what no one would ever know.

Giving a knock on the door Grace smiles as she enters the room. Today she wore a pretty pink sundress and a while flower made a nice addition in her hair that was pulled part of the way back and hung in little ringlets. Not her normal a tire.

   "Hey there Jared. Bet you wouldn't see me today since I was off huh?"

Entering the room a little more she continues to hold her smile. Something about the air in the room seemed thick and maybe even a little hostile but she did her best not to pay any mind to it. She come here today with a reason and she hoped Jared would take her up on it.

   "So, I came here for two reasons...one I just couldn't take a day without your flirting comments and two its so nice outside I thought you might like to get out of this room for a little while and get some fresh air."

The Past

Hunter chuckles and shakes his head. He was a bit tired, but he wouldn't leave Katie to her own devices in this state. It wouldn't be safe for her or anything else in the living room for that matter. 

"Naw, I'll stay up for a while if you don't mind the company." Kicking off his shoes, he puts his feet up on the coffee table and grabs his tv remote. Flipping through channels, he finds a B movie that wasn't too bad, so he leaves that on. "I've seen this at least ten times but the end is still good."

Settling back in the cushions, he yawns and puts his arms up behind his head. Turning just his eyes to look at Katie, he studies her, and again feels sorry for her. She was drunk but so sad and he didn't like it at all. Motioning her over, he offers himself if she wanted something warm to cuddle up to. He wouldn't mind if it would help her fall asleep. 

Standing up, Garret nods, even though this whole thing was a mess. "I love you too..." Pulling Victoria close for one last hug and kiss, he finally lets her go before turning to the dead guard. Picking him up and slinging him over a shoulder, Garret nods his goodnight to Victoria, knowing he might not see her until the next night. In the meantime, he had some explaining to do about this guard and he had better think up the rest of his story fast.

Heading through the trees to the back of the security building, he waits for the camera like always, then enters the lawn. Life. Was this really life? Was there really something different out there? And if there was, could it be attained or not? These were the questions that could never be asked aloud. 

"Afternoon."

Jared looks up and puts aside the magazine he'd been through ten times. Seeing it was Justin, he was a little surprised, but still pleased. "Hey."

"Ma said she stopped by earlier but I was just going through town after seeing a client so..."

Jared nods. "You felt obligated to stop."

Justin smirks a little. Jared wasn't dumb. It was mostly obligation that led him here, yes. Yesterday had been a good day with church and time spent with Beth both at the pond and supper at his place. Feeling better than he had been, helped his mood be good enough to come back here today. "That and I gotta go get Ma's groceries next and she'd ask me if I saw you."

"Ah yes. Worse than a conscience, eh?"

Justin didn't know whether to laugh or feel guilty. Coming in to sit down, he sighs. "She said you gotta be in here a bit longer."

"Yeah... I guess the doctor didn't like the results of some blood tests or something. They wanna get some numbers up before they'll release me."

"Didn't that happen before?"

Jared nods. "Twice. I feel alright. Kinda tired. But yeah they've wanted to get rid of me a couple times now and couldn't. Blood pressure once... infection the other time. Now this."

"Well at least they're being cautious."

"Yeah." A weird pause follows and Jared's eyes drop to his bedspread. "I learned I like chicken fingers this week... and Ma said red used to be my favorite color..." He remembers what Grace said about asking some less important questions. "What did we do for fun as kids?"

Justin chews on the inside of his lip. Not much. He shrugs. "We didn't do a whole lot together."

"No?" Jared glances to him again. "How come?"

"Different personalities I guess. You liked sports. I liked fishing. You liked board games. I liked worm hunting."

"What about later? Like as teenagers? Did we have any girlfriends?"

As teenagers? By then, Justin and Jared were all but enemies. Justin shakes his head. "You had a few I think. I remember Rhoda. She was nice. Cheerleader, I think. You always got the pretty ones."

Jared grins a little. "Oh yeah?"

"Mm-hmm."

"What about you?"

"Me? Naw. Oh, I've had a couple girlfriends but nothing serious and not til college. Had a real nutcase too - that turned out great. Still ducking her calls every now and again."

Jared chuckles, starting to relax. Maybe Justin was finally warming up. "Mom said we went to different colleges. Did we get together ever?"

"Uh... no... no we didn't."

There was that tension again. Jared's shoulders slouch a little. "And there's the cue to change subjects."

Justin gives him a quick glance, realizing he'd been way too obvious. A new deep sigh comes out. Was he finally brave enough to face this? Did he want to? Was it even right to tell Jared? He'd told him to forget about it. He'd told him to just move on and start a new life without knowing the past the last time he was here. Wouldn't telling him now be contradicting himself? But did that matter if this was right? He recalls what Beth had said the day before, and knows deep down that she was right. Jared deserved to know, whether Justin really felt ready or not. "You really want to know about what happened between us, don't you?"

Jared nods. "Yeah... I do. But I won't ask again if it bothers you that much. Maybe someday I'll wind up remembering. I can tell it's a sensitive topic and I don't want to upset you."

"I had just turned ten." Justin wasn't sure what had changed his mind during the last couple minutes. Maybe it was Jared's willingness to let it go. Maybe it was knowing how pointless it was to hide the truth. It hurt. But maybe Jared was right. Maybe he deserved to know. "You were twelve. Dad was going to come home early from work so he and I could go fishing as a birthday present to me. He died in a car accident on the way home."

Though Jared couldn't remember, he still felt a pang of sadness. Justin had said something about a car accident when they'd been kids but he knew no details. "So what happened?"

"You blamed me for it."

Jared blinks. "I... but..."

"It apparently made sense to you at the time. It was my birthday. Dad was coming home early because of me. If it hadn't been for me, he probably would have avoided the accident." Justin could feel his stress level rising. "You never forgave me. At the funeral, you made a scene out of yelling at me and blaming me in front of everybody."

Jared swallows hard. He didn't remember, but he felt rotten anyway. "Was... was that it?"

Justin looked back at the hopeful eyes and for a moment, he wanted to lie. But he'd come this far - he couldn't stop now. "No... no, things never were the same after that. We'd always been competitive, but it was worse after that. We never talked about Dad - all it did was start fights. We brawled a time or two and after a while we just didn't talk much at all." Justin shrugs. "You left home as soon as you could and I didn't see you much after that."

"Oh..." Jared didn't know what to say now. Had he been that bitter? Had he really blamed his brother for something like that? It was... it was horrible. "So we hadn't seen each other much up until my accident?"

"Not much. You'd come to see Ma. Said you were passing through but you stuck around. That uh... tooth you're missing..."

Jared feels around with his tongue where there was a space over on one side where a tooth should be. "Yeah?" He'd thought it was from the accident.

"That's... my fault."

Jared lifts an eyebrow. "What?"

"I... sorta slugged you." Justin cringes a little.

"What for?"

"For a snide comment about me killing Dad."

Jared's eyes lower once again. "After... seventeen years?"

Justin leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I guess so."

"I'm... I'm sorry." Jared glances over at him. "I know it doesn't mean much since I don't remember it... but I'm sure if I could, I'd say the same thing."

Would he? Justin had his doubts. Jared had no idea what kind of a cruel man he'd been. "I can't hold it against you," he admits. "Especially after all this."

Jared nods numbly. "Justin... did I have a girlfriend when I had my accident?"

"Not that I know of, why?"

Jared shrugs. "I thought maybe I remembered something. I guess not." Maybe that blonde that invaded the scene of his accident was just his imagination.

After that, they were interrupted by a nurse wanting to check Jared over, so Justin took his leave. It was a rather awkward parting, but perhaps it was the best that could be expected. Heading from the hospital, Justin is tempted to call Beth, but opts not to yet. He didn't want to crowd her... especially now.

Once the nurse leaves, Jared is left alone yet again. It always felt like that... like he was being left alone. He wondered if that's the way it would be, even when he was released from here. He had no friends and no other family, apparently. How would he even survive?

Glancing up at the wall clock, he wonders if Grace was coming today. He couldn't remember what she'd said the day before. All of his days just all seemed to melt into one anymore. While he hoped she would come because he liked her company... part of him wasn't so sure he was ready for her to read his eyes as well as she always did. This conversation with Justin was a lot to process and he wasn't quite sure he knew what to do with it yet.

Thankful

Handing off her keys to Hunter Katie goes around to the passenger side. A little slower than it would normally take but she makes it there and slips in. Feeling something vibrate under her bottom Katie gives a little jump shifting and reaching for her phone she forgot was there.

Opening the texts and seeing they were from Jason Katie reads them one by one before deleting them and letting out a sigh. Her finger hovers over the reply button but she hesitates. Shutting the phone off and stuffing it back in her pack Katie opts not to reply. She didn't want to hear an excuse, she was still angry with him.

Staying pretty silent the rest of the way back to Hunter's apartment it wasn't till they were inside and he was introducing her to his couch she finally chuckled. She was still intoxicated so it made the whole introduction a lot funnier.

   "Why hello Mr. Couch I know we just met but I hope you dont mind to much if I sleep on you tonight."

Plopping down next to Hunter Katie shifts around a little before looking at Hunter again and the mention of sleep. She did feel a little sleepy but not nearly enough to sleep. She wondered though if he was tired?

   'I"m not reallysh that tired...butsh if you want to sheep I can entertain myself shome how."

Continuing to being lost in the moment with Garret Victoria's guard was let down and hearing the snap of the branch brings everything back to reality. One she was not really ready to face. As Garret's reflexes kick in and the guard drops Victoria new it was a must and she would of done the same.

Just looking at the fallen body she can feel an anger surge through her. Why did they have to live like this? Would they always kill to hide there secret? She hated it had to be like this. Hearing There excuse Victoria gives a numb nod. This is not how she wanted the night to end but what was done was gone.

   "Yeah, Ok that sounds like a plan."

Sliding off Garret's lap Victoria looks back to him and places a hand on his own. This day had been a nightmare for both of them, one they would not wake up from but simply move on. She wished there was something to say to make it better.

   "You had to do this...No regret. My Grandfather will be thankful. I love you."

More Drunkenness

Hunter was relieved that he wasn't going to have to argue with Katie. Right now, he just wanted to know she was going to be safe, and the best way to do it was to take her to his apartment. 

"Okay good. Well how 'bout you give me your keys and we'll take your car so it's in a safe spot too?" 

Once he has the keys and makes sure she's in the car with him, he drives the short distance to the parking lot. Though not far, it was safer than leaving the car in front of the bar where who knows what could happen to it. 

Getting Katie out and up the stairs wasn't too difficult - she was so lightweight that Hunter had no trouble keeping her on her feet. When they arrive at his apartment, he's quick to unlock the door and guide her inside. Opting for the couch, he figured that was the best place - he knew good and well that it wouldn't be long until she was going to be out like a light. What he didn't know, though, was whether or not she'd remember anything when she woke up, and the last thing he wanted was for her to wake up in his bed and assume he hadn't been the gentleman he'd promised. 

"Alright... here we go... Katie, meet my couch. Couch, this is Katie." He guides her to sit, then eases down next to her.  "So, welcome to my apartment, I guess." He studies her glazed eyes for several moments. "How about getting a little rest, hmm?"

Soaking up Misty's comfort, Carson feels himself starting to relax again. She was the only one who could do that to him... relax him when he was the most uptight. 

Nuzzling into her, he sighs deeply, his eyes growing heavy. He hadn't thought he'd be able to fall back asleep but...

The beeping alarm yanks Carson from his sleep. Rolling onto his back, he whacks the top of the clock to get it to stop. It was still dark out, but it was time to get up, go for a jog then head to the restaurant. His drooping eyes stare into the darkness until he rolls back over. Cuddling up with Misty again, he slides his arm around her and tucks his legs in around hers. He didn't want to go running this morning and the restaurant could wait. He didn't care. He felt like he'd been run over by a truck, and that was that.

Garret didn't want this time to end. He could sit here forever with Victoria, feeling her so close, so warm. His heart beat loudly as his emotions poured out the only way they could. He felt love, pain, anger, comfort, sorrow, gladness... and it all was forced out through the continued kiss. 

A twig snaps. "What the..." 

Garret's head snaps back at the sound of someone's voice and his eyes instantly move to the side to see one of the guards, who was staring at them in shock. 

And Garret's reflexes are faster than his mind. 

In less than two seconds, the guard is no longer standing, but is lying on the ground with a knife in his chest, and Garret's eyes blaze as adrenaline surges through his veins. He hadn't even moved from his spot on the ground, but the witness was now dead. 

Gripping Victoria's hand, his eyes come back to hers, his gaze wide and concerned. More than anything though, he felt angry... for being caught, for the need to hide, and for the need to kill just to survive. This day had been bad enough, and now more blood had been shed - by his hands once more. Without even thinking or considering the consequences, he had just murdered someone because they'd witnessed him and Victoria together. And he had to think fast for them both to stay out of trouble.

"I caught him trying to sneak from the grounds," he states flatly. "Hans had paid him to find a way out." It was a bold-faced lie, but that's how this incident would be explained and Garret knew they could pull it off beautifully without so much as a blink from anyone. He swallows hard, hoping that she would agree to the cover-up. When on the job, seeing things like this were taken in stride. But usually killing people didn't happen while trying to relax at the estate.

His expression changes to one of sorrow. He'd been so enjoying their moment. To have it so abruptly ended like this, with a dead man just fifteen feet away, it was not how he'd wanted to say goodnight.

Being called to the scene at one o'clock in the morning, Reese was less than happy. The officer on the phone had explained that they had Alec, there had been some public disturbance, and when ready to haul him downtown, they'd realized he was under the eye of the Elite. After that, they'd tracked down Reese's home phone number. He wasn't sure if he was glad about that or not. If whatever it was was small, then he'd be mighty upset. If whatever it was was big, then he'd be even more upset. It wasn't fair that the Elite's rehabilitation program was riding on Alec - but that's the way it was. And if Alec failed, the program failed.

Pulling up outside the Bullseye, there are several cop cars with flashing lights, and a few people gathered around the sidewalk to gawk. Reese parks and gets out of his car, looking around at the glass scattered across the ground. There were broken beer bottles and several cars with bashed-in windows.

"Mr. Reese?"

He turns to nod at a police officer. "Yes. What's happened here?"

The officer steps to the side and points to a very drunk Alec sitting on the curb. "Apparently he was here for a while and had a few too many drinks. He came out here with some empty bottles and started breaking car windows for no apparent reason. We got called in and when we realized who he was... well, you know the rest."

Reese's anger boiled, but he manages to keep it below the surface. "Was anybody hurt?"

"Nah. He didn't seem to want anything to do with anybody. Just threw a fit all by himself."

"Great. Thanks. I'll take him off your hands." Reese was tired, disappointed and angry. And it was not a good combination. Stalking up to Alec, he gives his shin a light kick. "Get up."

Alec squints up at him, teetering slightly. "Aw, hey! Its th' cheif!" He cackles and tries to pull himself up, but struggles.

Reese reaches down and yanks him to his feet, forced to hang onto him, lest he fall right back down again. "You're coming with me."

"Right, right." Alec leans on him heavily. "And in th' sl'mer I go!" 

"Shut up." Reese half drags Alec to the car, shoving him into the passenger front seat and shutting the door - a little harder than need be. Getting in behind the wheel, he starts the engine without a word and aims towards TJY.

"I d'dn't hurt nobody, y'know," Alec slurs, slouching in his seat. "I's j'st havin' a bit of fun. I know you d'nt like that though. That's..." He frowns and counts on his fingers. "Um... three... three counts... right?"

Reese doesn't respond. Yes, it was three. Once not showing up for work. Once going outside city limits. And once disturbing the peace and destruction of property. That didn't include his being late for work several times lately, getting into a fight while on the job, nor his unexplainable bad attitude during the last few weeks.

Alec nods. "I g'ss tha's it fer me, huh? No more reh'belt'in." He frowns, being unable to pronounce 'rehabilitation' correctly. He shakes his head. "No more. Ov'r 'n out. No more Alec Banks ta threaten th' c'mmunity."

On top of being angry, Reese was sorry. He was sorry things had turned out this way. He was sorry they hadn't been able to help Alec. He had seen a good man. He had seen Alec's potential. He had seen the change. But when Alec had been dragged back in to the Agency, it had all been for naught. And now that they were trying to help him again, it was worse than starting over. Reese didn't know why. He didn't understand. All he'd wanted was to help the young man - give him a real chance at life without the Agency influence. He'd wanted to prove that Alec's criminal actions were only the result of the Agency and not his own nature. But lately.... lately, Alec was deliberately getting into trouble - pushing the limits to see how far he had go. It was as if he were just taunting Reese to hold to his word and throw him into prison.

Reese remembers the deal with the judge and the Elite board. By way of a miracle, he'd been allowed to keep trying to help Alec. Of course there had been punishment - there had to be. Alec was given hard labor as a consequence of his actions. But the judge had been lenient as a result of testimony that Alec had only gone back to the Agency in order to protect the innocent. Intentions didn't always win over the law, but they had this time. Now, though... where had Alec's intentions gone? He was defying the same system that had kept him from a life in prison. And Reese simply didn't understand.

Ignoring Alec's babbling, Reese continues to drive, getting to TJY. Dragging Alec inside, he makes his way to the first interrogation room, letting Alec sink down in a chair, and leaving him for several minutes before returning.

Alec looks at him dimly, his eyes glazed over and his mind functioning too slowly to do much good. "Ya g'na turn me inta th' pr'son?"

"No." Reese's stomach churns. He had tried. He had done his best. Maybe the program really wouldn't work. Maybe every time they got a hold of an Agency man or woman, they'd have to fight each case individually, hoping to give them a new chance, instead of having an established rehabilitation program. Maybe his dream would simply not come to be.

Kneeling in front of Alec, he pulls up Alec's pantleg to expose the ankle bracelet. He had left the room to retrieve the tools to remove it.

Alec furrows his brow. "What'r y' doin'?"

Reese doesn't answer. Instead, he simply sets about his task. He could get in very deep water for this. But the worst that could happen would be the end of trying to save Agency people. And even then, he had his own plans on how to handle that. Maybe he'd wind up paying for something. But with his reputation as Chief, he would probably only receive a reprimand from the judge. If anybody got hurt... well, Reese would have to deal with his own conscience with that one. 

Alec still tries to process what was happening as he stares down at Reese. "Ya g'na kill me or somethin'?"

Reese scoffs. "That, my friend, would be too easy and too humane for you." Removing the anklet, he stands, tossing it onto the table. Maybe there was a part of him, deep down, that hoped something good would come of this. That this move would be what Alec needed to prove himself worthy of being free. But the majority of what Reese was feeling was failure. He didn't often give up. But there was a time for everything. And tonight... he was done. "Stand up. I'll walk you to the door."

Alec manages to get to his feet, but was still confused. "Wha... why? What'r ya g'na do ta me?"

"Nothing." Reese takes him by the arm and leads him on a wobbly walk back to the exit and into the parking lot. "Now go."

"G-go... where?"

"Anywhere you want." Reese sighs deeply. "For once in my life, Alec, I give up. I can't keep you here. I can't, with good conscience, send you to prison. And I can't keep tracking you and cleaning up after your messes. As of tonight, you may go where you please. You do not have to report to work, and you will no longer be tracked."

Alec blinks, not knowing whether he was hearing the truth or if it was the alcohol messing with him. "I d'n't underst'nd."

"What's there to understand? You're free, Alec."

"Free?"

"Yeah. As in not my responsibility anymore. I wash my hands of you. I have tried everything I know how to do. I have given you every chance I possibly can. I thought it was going to work. I thought you would be happy to not be in prison or sentenced to death. But I guess I was wrong." Reese shakes his head. "You have four weeks to move to your own place. If you haven't found your own place, it's not our responsibility to take care of you. As of tonight, you will no longer receive an allowance. The Elite is through with you."

Though drunk, the seriousness of Reese's words do sink in, and Alec stares at him dumbly. "Well what.... what now?"

"That's up to you. If you get arrested, it's your problem, not mine. If the police or judge see any arrest records and deem you worthy of prison, it is their decision now, not mine."

"You c'nt j'st drop me in th' middle a n'where."

"I can, and I just did." Reese points across the parking lot to the street. "I will be informing the board of this first thing in the morning. If they disagree with my decision, they will have to decide what to do with you, because I'm done. You've proven me wrong about you, Mr. Banks. Congratulations." Without another word, Reese turns and goes back inside. Would Alec even make it safely home without hurting himself or getting run over? Reese didn't know. But it was time the babysitting stopped.

Alec stares at the closed door. Free? This is what free was? Being dumped on his butt with no warning? Why didn't Reese want him in prison? Why didn't he arrest him? Alec hadn't wanted this! He'd wanted prison! He'd wanted to get away from all this! But... freedom?

Staggering a bit, he heads for the sidewalk and aims towards home... he thinks. Was it left or right? Oh well, he'd find it eventually. Stopping every so often to lean on a light post or tree, Alec makes his way slowly home.

Free Ride

As Hunter steps in front of her Katie takes a few steps back to try not to run into him. Swaying for just a moment Katie regains her balance and than lets out a small laugh. She might have been drunk but she still had sense enough to know not to drive.

   "I was going to walksh...but a free ride...thats...even better. I might have gotten lost."

Taking Hunter's arm she links hers with his leaning into him just a little bit. She thought he was being mighty sweet.  In a way she was thankful because she had a friend to keep her safe right now, and care.

   "Ash long as your a gentil...men...your place sounds nice."

Taken in by Garret's kiss Victoria wraps her arms around him and just melts into his arms. His comfort, his love, she needed it at the moment. Returning the kiss she let as much passion flow as she could. Letting her hand run through his hair She just keeps the kiss deep all her emotions being put into it.

Holding Carson Misty new tonight it was him that needed the love and comfort. She new this was what he needed and she had no problem offering it. They shared it with each other, this was how it was.

   "Shhhh...there is nothing to be sorry for...It's going to be ok."

Running her other hand through Carson's hair Misty buried her head into his shoulder hugging him just a little bit tighter. She would try to chase the shadows away, she would keep him safe tonight.

XOXO

 Maybe on a different night, Hunter would have been able to let go of Katie's words. Maybe he would have been able to laugh them off as a dark joke. But something about how she said them tonight only served to increase his concern. If she were sober, perhaps his worry wouldn't be quite as intense. But her drunkenness on top of depression was not a good combination. Once again, he felt that same twinge of guilt for letting her join him in a bar at all. 

"Katie, hold up..." Paying the bartender quickly, he follows Katie's route out the door, just quick enough to get to her before she could get into her car. 

Sliding in front of her, he gives her a smile. "How about I drive, hmm?" There was no way he was letting her get behind the wheel. "Home won't be so bad once you get there..." Or would it? There were other people living with her but would they even know what kind of shape she was in, or check on her?

"Or... my apartment is just a couple blocks down. Wanna come over for a while?" He holds up his hands. "I promise to be a gentleman."

Just remaining seated on the ground, Garret wraps his arms around Victoria even a little tighter. "Normal..." 

Resting his head on her shoulder once more, his face was buried against her neck and hair. He breathes deeply, smelling her sweet scent and wishing with every fiber that they weren't here. He knew nothing else. She knew nothing else. They fought wars and came back here - that was their life. On the outside, it was all a lie. And even on the inside, much of it was a lie as well. Would there ever be truth? Peace? 

Eventually lifting his head again, he searches Victoria's eyes before leaning in and kissing her lips gently. Pulling back, it's only to tilt his head and kiss her again with more passion. He didn't care if he should be getting back to his quarters, seen by cameras. He didn't care if anybody would start to wonder where he was. He just wanted to be with Victoria and nothing else. 

His grip around her loosens and one hand comes up to rub her back. He had no more words. Words meant so little. All he had were his feelings and the only way he could show her was through his affection. Not letting the kiss break just yet, he lets it grow deeper, allowing his mind to forget all else, if only for a few moments. 

Returning Misty's kiss lightly, Carson nods. He'd go back to bed even though he wasn't convinced he'd be able to sleep.

Slowly walking with her back to the bedroom, he slides back in bed and pulls the blankets up again. This time though, he curls into Misty, letting her be the one to hold him instead of the other way around. This time, he just needed to feel her there with him and know he was okay. 

"Thank you," he mumbles into the pillow. "And I'm sorry."

Warrior

   "Hey....are you trying to use one of your pick up lines on me again?"

Katie's words were slightly slurred  and she herself new maybe it was time to go. But home was not the place she wanted to be. There memories of Jason lingered, memories of how there love had grown, the memories of everything and she didn't want to face it.

   "I'm not ready to go home Hunter. There...shadowsh and fhosts linger. There will be the echo of the voice telling me...life is not worth living. Home...I don't want to be there."

Hopping off the bar stool Katie's expression changed. It looked more sad now at the though of Jason and everything sinking in again. She felt so low, so unimportant...and being in a drunken state didn't help much with her thinking process. Taking Hunter's arm and giving it a pat Katie turns a little.

   "I was taken for a fool for sure Hunter. All this time he was telling me about how hanging out with just you looked bad, and look what he did. He made me look bad anyways. Maybe I should find a tall bridge and just..."

Katie words trail off as she lets go of Hunter's arm and starts her walk to the door. She felt like crap, and she didn't want to be here or there anymore but still those words wouldn't slip from her mouth. Even if I bridge was looking mighty comfortable right now.

Thinking about Garret's question for a long moment Victoria wasn't sure what to say. It was a question she had asked herself more than once but there was never really an answer. Was there a life outside this? Would they ever really know it?

   "One can hope and wondered but for us I don't think we will ever know it."

Looking up at Garret and searching his face Victoria's heart was breaking for more reason than one. Her mother, Garret, herself...would they always have this life? It was hard to think of anything else. She hated it here, but she loved it here..the conflicting feeling were enough to drive a person mad. 

   "For one day...I'd like to be normal, but I think its to late for that too."

Moving to the side of Carson Misty's heart breaks for Carson. She could only imagine what it must be like for him to have such things to remember. Was that why Carson was so distant, tired, what that why he was drunk tonight? After all this time could the past be sneaking up on him.

   "Oh Carson..."

Taking his hands in her own even if they were wet Misty brings them up to her lips and gives them a soft kiss. Her eyes giving so much compassion, and love twords him in just that single look. She cared so much for him and loves him with everything she was. To see him hurting...it hurt her.

   "I love you my sweet warrior...You've come so far."

Letting his hand go and bringing it to the side of his face her fingers brush lightly over his sing as she tilts her head a little and leans in for a soft kiss.

   "Come on, lets go back to bed....maybe we can chase those shadows away."

Home

"Yeah... this is one of the spots." Hunter gives Katie a wry grin as she wobbled and laughed. In a way it was kind of funny - with any of his other friends, seeing them get drunk was quite the form of entertainment. But for some reason, tonight... it seemed more sad than funny. Katie was being pretty silly, but... maybe if it wasn't  because she was hurting so badly, then it might seem more amusing. 

Shoving aside his bottle that had its label almost completely peeled off now, Hunter sighs. It was getting pretty late, and his backside was getting stiff from sitting here so long. "How about we call it a night, huh?" He nods towards the door. "I'll drive you to your place." She was going to have a nice hangover the way it was - he might as well try and get her to ease off before she drank any more. 

There was an amount of relief that seeped into Garret's veins as Victoria confirmed her love. He couldn't imagine being in her position. He knew it wasn't his "fault" about her mother, but he had still done his job and it was amazing that she wouldn't hold that against him. 

As she hugs him, he slips his arms around her too and just holds her tightly. Rocking back, he sits on the ground, pulling her into his lap and just keeping her in his arms. They should be able to sit together on a balcony under the stars, or in front of the fireplace in one of the sitting rooms. But it was the threat of death that kept them hidden in the shadows on the cold earth instead of somewhere they could be warm and comfortable expressing their affection.

"Life would be hopeless without you..." Garret rests his head on Victoria's shoulder, fighting against the rising emotions that tempted tears to fall. "Thank you... for loving me. I don't know what I'd do without that." 

Drawing in a shaky breath, he pulls back just enough to see her eyes once more. "Are we to always live like this? The rest of our lives?" 

Feeling Misty's hand on his shoulder, Carson doesn't move, but simply shakes his head. "No..." His voice was strained and hoarse. Finally he turns off the water and grabs a towel to dry his face. Taking a deep breath, he leans back against the bathroom wall, his eyes staring off into nothingness. 

"Seeing my family murdered the first time was bad enough." He swallows hard. "But seeing it over and over... and over..." He closes his eyes, fighting his emotions. The nightmare had been even more violent than reality.

"I thought I'd never have to relive that again." Lifting his hands, he stares at them trembling and he shakes his head, trying to laugh it off. "If only Medridge knew what a good job he did. He'd be pretty proud of himself."

Laughter

   "Maybe...maybe but for tonight...tonight I can continue to wallow in misery and you can...be my company."

Katie hurt, she was miserable, she wanted to call Jason and say she was sorry but than thinking about what she had seen again with him and Sandy reminded her there was anger there too. It sucked loving someone, hating someone, feeling crushed inside. It had been a long time since Jason made her feel that way. 

As the night went on and another beer was consumed is was that beer that did Katie in. She couldn't help but laugh at the dumbest of things. Everything just seemed funny and she couldn't help it. Her speech was less than perfect even though her concentrated and tried to make it so it didn't work.

   "SHooooo....this...this ish y'o normal shpot to hang out....out?"

Hearing her own speech makes her laugh again as she shakes her head and puts her hand on Hunter's arm. She felt so silly, but at the same time she wasn't thinking about unwanted things either so it made it nice as well. Maybe for this one night, this is just want she needed.

Sitting on the swing this had been her perch all day. Victoria didn't much feel like dealing with anyone or having the eyes of the other servants on her. She just wanted to sit quietly, morn her mother, and shed tears. They had been long dried up by now though and there was nothing left to cry. The silver locked hung around her neck now the place it would make its home. Now she sat continuing to wait maybe Garret would show up.

Picking up on the sound of walking Victoria once again new it was home before even looking. It would bring a smile to her face any other day but today she just didn't feel much like smiling though she did feel happy Garret was now there with her.

   "I was hoping you would come here tonight."

As he walks around and bends down in from of her Victoria looks back deep into his eyes. Sometimes that was the only way for them to share there emotions. To read each other deeper was to look deeper. The window to the soul was through ones eyes.

Bringing her hand out her soft fingers trace Garret's face. She could see his own torment he was putting himself though. It pained her in more ways than one to see this because she new what he had done really was bothing him. Finally resting in his chin her thumb just rungs over the side of his face. A tiny smile find it was out.

   "I told you the day before last Garret that I don't hate you, and I don't blame you so stop saying it."

Finally slipping off the swing Victoria puts her arms around Garret and pulls him into a big hug. She loved him, she always love him no matter what. This was just another hill they would get over. This was there life.

Laying in the dark Misty waits and waits for Carson to come back to bed. The longer she waited the more the worry sank in. She new he'd had a bad dream it was just easy to tell about what though she didn't know. 

Turning the bed down and getting out Misty grabs her robe from the hook on the wall and puts it on tieing it around herself. Walking to the bathroom she just stands there for a moment before coming up and placing a soft hang on Carson's shoulder.

   "Are you ok Hun?"

Nightmare

Though Hunter grinned at Katie, he wasn't laughing as much as she. He wasn't quite sure if she was covering up the pain or if it was the alcohol loosening her up. Either way, her words of sinking herself didn't set with him too well. Not that he'd overreact, but it wasn't easy seeing her like this. 

"Don't sink yourself." He shakes his head and winks at her. "I'd miss you."

He picks up his empty beer bottle. "As far as another one goes... I got a few drops left." He clinks it against Katie's bottle. "To freedom. And friendship." 

Watching her carefully, he cocks his head, noting that she was just about done with her second beer. At the speed she was drinking, he feared it wouldn't take much longer for her to slide right off the stool onto the floor. She was still speaking clearly though... but even so, he finds himself continuing to watch her. Why he was so concerned, he wasn't really sure. He didn't usually care about what people did in bars, let alone feel responsible. But Katie was different. And it's just the way it was. 

Tipping back his head, he coaxes the last remaining drops of beer from his bottle. "Well..." He resumes the conversation in the hopes that Katie would talk out whatever she needed to. "Whether you feel like it or not, you're not broken. Things will look better tomorrow, and you might even find out you don't need that rock to stand on anymore." 

It was late. The grounds were already dark, and crickets made the only quiet sounds. But Garret was far from sleep. Walking almost silently across the veranda and through the garden, his pace is slow and wandering. If anybody asked, he'd just tell them he was battling insomnia. The truth though, was that he was battling his conscience. 

Eventually he finds himself slipping towards the secret hiding place. For such a small location, it had much drawing power that he was rarely able to resist. Hands in pockets, his ears pick up all the sounds needed to avoid the detection of the security cameras. It was second nature by now. 

His boots move quietly through the grass, almost in silence. But his mind was nowhere near quiet. He had not seen Victoria since earlier that day when he'd returned. In truth, he had avoided her. He didn't know what he'd say. How he'd act. There had been a few other times when he had regretted his actions. But today was the worst he'd ever experienced. And Victoria was suffering for it. 

Coming upon the old swing, Garret is slightly startled to see Victoria's form. He wouldn't have thought she'd be out here at this late hour. He couldn't turn back though - he knew she would have already spotted him.

Approaching slowly until he was in front of her, a lump rises in his throat. Taking a knee and looking up into her face that was cradled in soft moonlight, he searches her dark eyes. "I'm so sorry," he whispers. "I don't deserve your love - I never did. I won't hold it against you if you blame me for today." 

Carson sits bolt upright in bed, sweat pouring down his face and neck. His heart thumped so hard, it felt as though it would beat right out of his chest. Staring into the dark bedroom, he glances to the side, hoping he hadn't just woken Misty. He couldn't tell. What time was it? It felt like he'd only been asleep for an hour or two.

Slipping out of bed, he pads quietly to the bathroom. Leaning on the sink, he splashes cold water on his face, trying to calm his breathing. He shook all over as the panic attack ran its course. He couldn't remember the last time he'd had that nightmare. He had never wanted to see it again. But it was back. He knew why. He knew it was stress that brought it on. But still, he'd been unprepared to see those images all over again... to revisit those memories.

Still leaning on the sink, water drips from his face to swirl down the drain, along with the running water from the faucet. Continuing to shake, he just wants it to pass before he went back to bed. Not that he would sleep after this.

Morning

Letting out yet another long sigh Katie takes a swig of her beer and swishes the liquid around in her mouth for a long moment just savoring the taste. It was cool and refreshing and she liked it. All in all it didn't seem that bad to have a drink if it was once in a while.

Hunter's comment strikes her as being slightly funny. It was strange in a way to hear someone else say about how nice she was. Most of the time it had been Jason or someone close to her but something about how Hunter said it was just....different.

   "Thanks for reassuring me I'm not broken but I sure do feel like it. Jason he's...always been my rock and now it feels like I'm sinking you know. Like I should just sink myself so it not long and drawn out."

Just shaking her head again Katie didn't mean to sound so depressed but its how her mood was right now. She just felt like complete crap, and she couldn't help her moon matched.

   "How about a toast...to freedom may it treat us both well and...something...something..something."

Katie gives a laugh knowing she sounded completely retarded right now but the beer was sinking in and she was laughing so that was the point of coming right?

   "You have to get another beer though if your gonna toast."

Watching Garret as he comes up the steps her face was a lack of emotion though standing there she felt like a puppy who was waiting for there master. Two had gone and one had come back. It was a fate she new was coming but somewhere inside her heart she had hoped. 

As Garret takes her hand and places the locket into it Victoria can't help the tear that finally broke from her eye. This was her mother, her flesh and blood, she was not made of stone and if someone anyone did not understand that than let them punish her too.

Wrapping her fingers around the locked she would keep it always, she would always ware it. And Garret's request would always be honored...though she hurt she could never be so mad as to not forgive him knowing he had to do it. 

Slowly descending the steps Victoria slowly walk down the walk way, into the garden's and to the secret spot with the swing. Right now she just wanted to be alone, she wanted privacy, she wanted to be able to cry freely. Now it was the time for morning the woman who had given her life.

Never Ask

Taking note of Katie's second beer, Hunter says nothing, just letting her drink. He knew it wouldn't take much to make her tipsy and it probably wouldn't require much more to get her completely drunk. But for now he wouldn't interfere. He could always drive her home if it got too bad. 

Listening to what had happened, he shakes his head a little and sighs. He was glad she'd told Jason it was over - in his mind, that's what she needed. To break ties with the guy who was just constantly hurting her feelings. Even so, he knew that breaking up wasn't easy and it was tearing Katie apart. 

"No, you're not broken," he responds gently. "You're far from it, and you have every right to be angry. I guess I don't know everything and I wasn't there but... as far as I'm concerned, you've done nothing to deserve any of this. You're one of the neatest women I've ever met and Jason's stupid for hurting you." 

Finishing off his beer, he sets aside the bottle and waves away the offer for a second. He suddenly had the urge to stay sober tonight. Tonight, clarity was needed. "I know it sucks but if he's been that much of a jerk then this is what's best for you, right?"

How could Victoria be glad he was chosen to murder her own mother? Garret wasn't sure he'd ever understand. He was relieved to know that she wouldn't hold the act against him... that she would still love him just the same... but what he questioned was whether or not he'd be able to live with himself and see her every day knowing that he had taken her mother's life. 

"Thank you." It felt such a trite answer, but what else could he say? "I hope I will be able to forgive myself as you can forgive me." 

Rubbing his own blood between his fingers, he then ignores the small wound. He must move on. "I'll see you later." Whether it was fear of someone seeing them or fear of losing control of his emotions, he wasn't sure, but choosing to leave the scene was best... 

The day would move on, but it felt as though there were a dark cloud hanging over the estate. Despite Cassandra having the rest of this day, she would not be found by anyone, not even Victoria. It wouldn't be until the next morning that she would be seen, and it was simply to walk from the house to the waiting van where Garret joined her in the back for a blind ride to the airstrip. He had not seen Victoria yet this morning, but he could feel her eyes, and he knew that she was aware they were leaving. And he knew that she would always remember seeing this van pull away, taking with it her mother's life...

Garret's hands grip the steering wheel a little tighter than normal as he drives down the quiet road, staring through his sunglasses. He'd been here before, and knew his way around the winding back roads, but wasn't sure about the exact location. He only knew it had been a half an hour since they'd left the airstrip after landing.

Glancing in the rearview mirror, all he sees is the black divider, keeping his eyes from seeing his victim. It was just as well. He wasn't sure if he could stand to see the eyes that reminded him so much of Victoria. How many lives had he taken? How many eyes had he stared into before pulling the trigger? And none had felt like this.

"You're going to kill me, aren't you?"

Cassandra's voice through the speaker comes as a surprise. What wasn't surprising was that she'd figured out she was not being taken to some political negotiations as she'd been told. Garret finally answers her. "Yes."

There was a long stretch of silence before she speaks again. "Please make it clean and quick."

Garret grits his teeth as his eyes remain glued to the road. "I will."

It was not long enough before he was pulling the car off onto an old dirt road and driving a  ways into the secluded area. No one would find a body here, especially if it was buried. And even if they did, it would be untraceable.

Parking the car, Garret sits for several moments, checking his handgun to make sure it was loaded. Finally getting out, he opens the back door for Cassandra. Stepping into the sunlight, she had as much poise as if taking an afternoon stroll. With no words spoken, Garret leads her a short distance away before retrieving his gun from his hip and cocking it.

"Please take care of Victoria for me."

Garret's gaze rises to Cassandra. As far as he was aware, Victoria had never even told her about them. "You knew?"

Cassandra smiles before reaching up and removing Garret's sunglasses from his face so she could see his eyes. "It's a mother's talent to know things like that."

Garret swallows hard. "You have my word, I'll do all I can to protect her."

Cassandra nods. "Thank you. I know you will."

Taking several steps back, Garret cocks his gun and raises it to stare down the length of his arm. He would not keep her waiting. "Goodbye, Cassandra."

She holds herself tall and takes a deep breath as she waits for the end. A single tear slowly slides down her cheek. "Goodbye, Garret."

The trigger is squeezed. The shot echoes through the air. And Cassandra's body slumps to the ground.

Lowering his gun, Garret has to take several moments before approaching once more. Kneeling beside the body, he retrieves his sunglasses from Cassandra's limp hand before standing again.

It would take over an hour for him to dig a grave and cover it again. And when it was done, Garret was once more behind the wheel of the car, heading back to the airstrip. The entire incident would be swept under the rug to keep any questions at bay. Soon, no one would remember the day Cassandra had not returned to the estate. But the day would always be burned into Garret's mind, never to be forgotten...

...Stepping out from the back door of the van, Garret's eyes sweep the area. He was back at the estate once more, and still just as clueless as always about the location. But for once, he was not glad to be back within the safety of these walls. Heading towards the house to report to Medridge, he spots Victoria on the steps, and his heart aches all the more. Never had it been so hard to maintain his composure and pretend that everything was fine.

Taking the steps, he pauses for only a moment in front of her. Reaching for her hand, in it he places the silver locket that her mother had always worn, and he curls her fingers around it, giving her hand a squeeze. Looking her in the eye, his gaze was cold and dark. "Never ask me about today." It was more than a request. It was a warning. For he would not speak of it.

Letting her go, he continues his route inside before any attention was drawn to them. Medridge needed to hear that the job was done before Garret could seek out the privacy of his own quarters. He had yet to decide if he would sleep, cry or get drunk. But he knew none would erase the day.

Rose

Finishing off the bottle of beer Katie waves the bartender over for another. Getting that one she takes another swig of it before turning her head to look at Hunter. His words were comforting but it didn't make the pain any less, but it was nice to hear them anyways.

   "I yelled at him, walked away, told him it was over. He tried to stop me and tell me it wasn't what it looked like. I told him to just leave me alone, what else could it be than it looked like. Even if he didn't want Sandy to kiss him he had to have given her the impression he liked her or something and thats just as bad."

Letting out yet another heavy sigh followed by another swig of beer Katie mind started to get slightly foggy. Some might say she was a light weight and they were right. For her first time drinking, a beer and a few swigs the liqueur would hit fast and make he tipsy for sure. She wasn't there yet but she could definitely feel something.

   "After everything I've done for him Hunter...I just dont get what I did wrong to cause this. Am...I broken or something that he would need to seek another woman? I mean...and after the lecture he gave me about hanging out with you when what we did was completely innocent. The nerve...It just...makes me hurt, and mad the more and more I think about it."

Watching Garret and walking along her side of the flowers Victoria was happy that they separated her and Garret or she would of fallen into his arms right there. Even the strong had to break down, even the thick hearted had a weak spot.

   "Tomorrow...thats so soon. He's not even going to question her himself?"

It was surprising to head that her mothers death would be quick and there would be no dragging it out. In a way she was thankful her mother would not have to endure any more than she already had. There would be no torchure, no endless questions. In the snap of the fingers it would be over.

Stopping and seeing the blood trickle down Garret's finger Victoria let out a silent tear on the inside hearing he had been the one chosen to do this job. A mixed amount of emotions played inside her. Anger, hate, pain but not twords Garret it was not his fault, he was only following orders but it was her grandfathers she held these emotions for a little more than she had.

   "I'm glad you were chosen. You will show mercy and wont let it drag on any longer than it has to. And when you get back, it will be washed away and I will continue to love you because this is our job but does not define who we are. Like a rose bush has thorns that hurt, tear, and leave marks on the skin it does not look any less beautiful making us forget the danger it holds till finally with great care it is taken and loved."

Weak

Hearing that Jason had been found kissing another woman, Hunter finds himself not being surprised. After everything Katie had told him about what had been going on, this came as no shock. It did, however, make him somewhat irritated... no, maybe it was even angry. Katie was a great woman - kind, funny, considerate, smart, passionate. Jason was a fool for playing that game with her. 

Seeing Katie take several more swigs of beer, Hunter could tell now that this whole thing - her coming here tonight - was an act of desperation. He knew that look in her eye all too well from seeing it in the mirror too many times. It was when he wanted so bad just to numb the pain with whatever he could. It had gotten him in trouble more than once.

Leaning his elbows on the bar, Hunter purses his lips grimly and nods. "I'm sorry... Jason's a jerk for doing that to you. Nobody like you deserves something like that." 

Picking at the label on his beer bottle, he really isn't sure what else to say. "What did you do when you saw him?

Hearing Victoria's voice, Garret looks up and gives her a small smile... it was all he dared, and all he could muster. 

Continuing to study the roses, he listens, finding it difficult not to feel the small stabs to his heart. Victoria did love her mother... in spite of everything she'd had to deal with her whole life, she did still love her mother. Cassandra was the only stable thing around here... and it was soon to be over. 

"She's a strong woman," he confirms. "Perhaps in a place like this, death is more welcomed than dreaded." 

Taking a few steps forward, he leans in to smell the sweet scent of some taller roses. It was all he could do not to walk around and take Victoria in his arms. Hold her. Comfort her. He could see how much torture she was enduring. To others it wouldn't be seen, but to him it was obvious. And to make matters worse, he had a job to do. 

Straightening and finally looking over at her, he squares his shoulders. "It's going to happen tomorrow," he informs quietly. "No one is supposed to know. She's going to be taken to a different location so no one here will rebel against Medridge's decision." 

Swallowing hard, Garret isn't sure if he can voice the rest of it or not. It was a strange feeling. He could usually wipe away all feelings in order to do his job. But today, in front of Victoria, it was more difficult than he'd even imagined, and it made him feel weak. 

Caressing another rose, he jerks his hand back to find a drop of blood on his fingertip. No one was invincible. 

Eventually he looks up again. She had a right to know. "He chose me for the job."

Sarrow

Getting her beer and taking a swig Katie gives a nod and coughs for a quick moment. First time having beer it surprised her a bit the taste but it wasn't the worst thing she tasted it was rather smooth after the first shock of it. All in all, it wasn't bad and she...she kind of liked the taste.

Looking back to Hunter at his comment she shakes her head a little bit and than follows it with a nod and another sip of the beer before letting out a long sigh. She didn't want to think about it but she could tell Hunter was itching to know what happened and suddenly she wanted to drink. He deserved to know he was paying after all and he was her friend.

   "Well, I guess one would call it heavy. I'd say more painful, and angering to turn a corner and see your boyfriend, the man you have bent over backwards for in the embrace of another woman...."

Katie takes another long sip before continuing. It was easy to see the pain that was in her eyes and in her voice.

   "...kissing, in front of everyone. Yep thats pretty heavy."

   "Careful even the pretty flowers still have thorns."

Walking along the other side of the bushes Victoria had washed up and changed her close so no one would tell that all of last night she had been in the same times. Though her eyes had makeup on to hide the dark circles if one looked close enough they could tell sleep was something she lacked.

   "I spent the night with mom...I just...wanted to be close to her. All the time in the word and it still wouldn't have felt like I had spend enough with her."

Finally looking up at Garret she new that if anyone took note on camera it would look like just a normal conversation, or if anyone saw them from a distance they wouldn't know any better. Victoria's face held little to no emotion though she new Garret would be able to see the pain written all underneath.

   "She's...she is doing alright surprising enough. As for me...I'm trying to hold it together like its just a normal everyday thing."

Ryan can't help but laugh at Tal. He was such a sweet heart and did know how to make the best of a situation. She was thankful for that because he always kept the mood light and never let it get him down to much.

Coming close to him again Ryan is gentile not to bump him wrong or lean on him to hard. Pressing her lips to his she just lets the moment continue for a few minutes before pulling away and giving him a smile.

   "Alright what about those puppy's?"

Dreaded

"Ah, there, ya see? You know more than you think you do." Hunter turns and waves at the bartender, ordering the beer for Katie. 

Taking another swig of his own, he eyes Katie for several moments, still wondering what had been so horrible about her own day. He gives her a shrug. "My day was alright. Nothing short of boring, somewhat depressing and rather non-motivational." He grins. "But that's me every day." 

Shaking his head, he sighs, although his grin remains. "Ah. So you were avoiding me. I thought so. Don't worry about it though... I had it coming to me after I pulled the stunt of showing up at the Elite building. Wasn't the smartest thing I've done." 

He pauses as her beer comes before resuming the conversation. "I'm a bit surprised you're here tonight though..." He lifts one eyebrow in question. "Must have been some pretty hefty crap." 

Carson doesn't respond right away, but finally nods before picking himself up. Standing, he waits for Misty and takes her hand to lead the way to the bedroom. His balance seemed to have already improved. 

Sinking into bed, it isn't long before he has his arms wrapped around her from behind, holding her as if he thought he might lose her if he didn't. "I love you," he whispers. 

Having just managed to get to his feet with his one crutch and begin hobbling towards the hallway, Tal just about falls over as he laughs at Ryan's comment. "Don't worry," he calls back to her. "If I can't do this by myself, I'm in a whole lot worse shape than I thought." 

Thankfully he makes it to the bathroom and back without too much trouble, although the short trip in itself is tiring. Getting back to the couch, he has to figure out the best way to sit back down again, not really sure which position hurt the most. 

"Okay now that you have all that stuff, come here for another kiss," he teases. "I need some more motivation." 

Garret's walk was more tense today as he roams the garden area. It wasn't necessarily the safest place on the grounds, as there were cameras that swept this area, but it was one of the least busy as far as traffic and ears went. Today was a day of waiting for tomorrow, and he was already dreading it.

But dreaded even more was seeing Victoria today. She hadn't come to him last night, and while he'd heard nothing from Medridge, he hoped everything was alright and that she hadn't done anything foolish concerning her mother. He knew that she was smarter than that though.

Today he wanted to see her and he didn't want to see her, both. But he knew he had to, and he knew what he had to tell her. And it wasn't going to be easy.

Pausing by a rose bush, he reaches out and feels the soft petals. How delicate it was... just like life.

Crys

Thinking about all the different kinds of drinks Hunter was talking about Katie felt a little confused. Different kinds of drinks for different moods. She couldn't help but feel a little nervous she never had done this so who know what she liked at all.

   "Well...lets not start with the shot, how about...starting with a beer. Humm...how about something with a sweeter taste. I was told Labatts is good for that."

Katie gives a another smile as she hops up on the bar stool. She didn't feel to bad for being here, she'd broken up with Jason so now she wasn't do anything wrong. Not that she though she was before thinking about it only made her angry again though.

   "So, my night might have been crap but...how was yours? I'm sorry I have been avoiding you."

As Carson answers her and than places his head in her lap Misty lets out another sigh. Something about the way Carson was acting...she didn't find it cut like normal. Maybe it was because she was slightly irritated. Holding Carson like he asked she leans her head back against the couch. She had no idea what to say to him now so many nothing was the best thing to say.

   "How about we head to bed hmmm?"

As the night draws on and laughs were shared, tears were shed, and memories remembered Victoria dreaded the sleep. When she mother finally did she slowly walked to the balcony again and looked out at the heavens.

   "I don't know if your out there God, but spare my mother. She lived this life because she had not, there was no other choose."

Letting out another sigh and walking back in Sleep was not something Victoria would find. Stay by her mom's side like she promised she held she hand and continued to just watch her sleep. Remembering her, imprinting her image into her mind so she would never forget when she was gone.

...Draw came all to soon and Victoria's eyes were heavy from not a wink of sleep. She new it was time, it was time for her to leave the room while she still could. It was not something she wanted to do but it was something she had to do.

Leaning over to her mom's sleeping form Victoria gives her a soft kiss on the for head brushing her hair gently with her fingers to not wake her.

   "I love you! I'm sorry I couldn't save you."

A tear trickled down her cheek and she new it was time to go. Gathering her things and slipping silently out the door Victoria makes her way for her room. So much seemed to change in the matter of days, thats how its always been but having it be so close to home, one of her family members it seemed to just be quicker. 

But the worst thing of all where the screams and crys in her own head of the familys she helped destroy. This was no different than anything else she had done...maybe in a round about way this was her punishment for everything she had done.

Giving a laugh and shaking her head Ryan heads into the kitchen. Stopping at the table she looks for the papers for the puppys Coming across a stack of bills she looks through them before taking two and folding them slipping them into her back pocket. Tal would never let her help willing so she would do it without his knowledge. Yelling into the other room making he was making his way to the bathroom she grins.

   "Just whatever you do, dont need any help in there till Eli comes back because there is no way I am coming to the rescue."

Laughing Ryan spots the paperwork about the dogs and scoops it up along with the phone bringing it back into the living room and setting it down on the table. Looking through some of the stuff she had no idea really what she was looking at so for now she would set it aside and leave it for when Tal came back and directed her to do.

Whimper

Waiting for Katie, Hunter sips his beer slowly. His concern was increasing and he really wanted to know what had happened today. He knew well enough that she wouldn't want to come have drinks out of the blue - it just wasn't like her. Though he'd only known her a short while, he'd learned a lot about her and this was not normal.

When she finally arrives, he offers her a smile. "Hey, you." A rough night? That was it? There had to be more to it than that.

As she admits she doesn't know what to order, a new grin surfaces. He wasn't making fun of her in the least - he just found her standing there like that rather cute. "Well, hop on up here." He gestures to the barstool next to him. "They don't have the best variety here, but it's not the worst." He turns in his seat and studies Katie for a long moment. "Although I might have a hard time recommending something until I know what it is you want to accomplish."

He holds up his beer. "Me, I'm just thirsty and want something cold that has more kick to it than water. They got a couple different kinds of beer... I like the taste of the German brands. Budweiser tastes like..." He stops and grins again, not finishing his sentence. "If I wanted to relax, I might get a glass of red wine. And..." He looks her in the eye as all of a sudden he feels just a twinge of guilt. Not for being here, but for what he doing - recommending beverages Katie wouldn't have touched yesterday. Not that he thought drinking itself was bad - he certainly did enough of it. Katie though... she was different. And having her here with him right now felt just a bit out of place. But, who was he to stop her? She obviously wanted to try something new, and the least he could do was help her out. "If I was trying to forget about something and just wanted to feel it burn, I'd order a double bourbon straight up... at least once."

He cocks his head. "But that's just me. I'm not too adventurous and the fruity foo foo stuff doesn't do anything but make me silly." He shrugs. "Take your pick. And since you had a rough night... I'm buying."

Carson returns Misty's kiss rather gently for someone in his state, and he doesn't ask for more. Her question sends his eyes to the floor and he picks at his fingernails. 

"I j'st... met some'n there fer j'st one drink was all... honest..." His eyes remain down, his shoulders slouching. "And then we... well I... I guess I had more'n I thought y'know? And all'f a sudden it was late an' I's s'posed to be home an' I didn't want ya mad at me." 

He nods at the floor, concluding his reasoning. Shifting a little on the couch, he lies down on his side, putting his head in Misty's lap and bringing his feet up, curling almost into a ball. "Thank you... fer not bein' mad." He lets out a long sigh, his eyes falling shut as he pulls himself in even tighter. "Hold me?" His question was almost a whimper as if begging for comfort. 

"Oh, Victoria." Cassandra cradles her check with a hand as a tear glistens in her own eye. "Sometimes love means letting go. But I won't argue with you. You may stay - but if I suspect that anybody believes you are here for any other reason besides being my daughter, I will have you leave." 

Walking slowly from the balcony, she enters her room through the open doors and sits on the edge of her bed. "Come..." She pats next to her. "Let's talk of when you were a little girl. I like remembering those times." 

It was a quiet time between mother and daughter that followed. Stories, quiet laughter and an occasional tear. Eventually though, weariness overtook Cassandra and she knew she must sleep, no matter what tomorrow was going to look like. Before drifting off though, she took one last look at her daughter, knowing that in the morning, she would be gone. 

Tal grins up at Ryan and then finally laughs. "I think there's a pile of papers by the fridge in the kitchen. Somewhere in there is a number for a Gary Harrison. He's the guy I gotta call about the pups."

His own expression turns a bit sheepish. "And while you hunt down the number I gotta use the little boy's room, but it will probably take me an hour just to get there and back, so take your time."

Have to Admit...

Hearing where Hunter was Katie takes a moment to get her bearings she gives a small nod even though Hunter couldn't see here. She wouldn't make him go anywhere else she would just meet him there. Katie new where the place one.

   "I'm not to far away. I'll just meet you there. See you soon."

Hanging up the phone Katie continues to sit on the side of the road for a long moment. Letting out a long sigh Katie tries to collect herself. She wanted to be somewhat clear headed before pulling out again and entering a rough place like a bar.

...It dosn't take to long for Katie to get to the bar. Leaving her purse in the car along with her cell phone Katie gets out and locks the door stuffing her keys into her jean jacket. Getting into the bar and looking around Katie spots Hunter up at the bar. Walking over and laying a hand on his shoulder she trys to smile.

   "Hey Hey, thanks for agreeing to meet me. I just...had a rough night and needed my friend. Though it might be nice to do something different too but...I have to admit I don't know whats good to drink and whats not."

Katie bits her bottom lip as she knows she feels kinda silly but hopes Hunter will understand and help her out a little bit. It was something new to keep her mind off things. Though Katie new sometime during the night she would talk to Hunter about what happened to night she just wasn't ready to yet.

Once Carson comes back again Misty looks at him for a long moment before finally leaning in and giving him a kiss on the lips. She still couldn't wrap her head around the idea of him being drunk and not know why was worse. It just didn't add up to her and the more she thought about it the worse it was.

   "So how come you got drunk at the bar tonight instead of going to your bible study like normal?"

Misty new his answer from earlier but there had to be a better one than that. That was an excuse not an answer to her question. She wanted to know that truth and that was all. She just wanted to be able to understand what was going on with her husband.

Looking back at her mother Victoria's eyes were filled with sorrow. She couldn't leave her mother, she just couldn't. No one should have to die alone and she wasn't about to let her mom share that. She might be as hard as stone when it came to the agency but her own mother, how could a wall no crumble to that.

   "No, I will stay with you the night...I need too. I will be gone by morning if need be but I will stay with you for now. I have too."

Victoria continues to stand with her mother there was just something inside her that would not let her movie. She just couldn't move, her body just wouldn't let her and her heart new this was right.

   "I love you, you are my mother and no body will think anything more."